Sold: Large French Antique Gilt Overmantle Wall Mirror C 1870

Name: Large French Antique Gilt Overmantle Wall Mirror C 1870
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1234237
Price: 1595 GBP
Availability: SoldOut

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectOvermantel Mirrors
Period19th century
StyleFrench Second Empire
MaterialGiltwood, Gesso, Mirror Glass
ColourGold
MotifsFoliate moulding, Beaded rim, Corner flourishes
SizeH 156 cm (61 in) x W 125.5 cm (49 in)

This large French Second Empire overmantel wall mirror dates from 1870. The piece takes the form of a rectangular mirror plate set within an ornate giltwood and gesso frame featuring elaborate floral carving, foliate moulding, and decorative corner flourishes. The frame has a rich gold finish with a visible water-gilded surface. The glass plate displays a distinct atmospheric appearance with natural foxing and authentic signs of age across the reflection. Original wooden backing boards secure the reverse, while the front presents detailed beaded inner rims. Measuring 156 cm high by 125.5 cm wide, the mirror stands large enough to rest directly upon the floor or mount securely to a wall. In a modern interior, this piece suits placement directly above a mantelpiece in a living room, or as a floor-standing statement piece in a hallway or bedroom.

FAQs

Popularised during the 19th century, French overmantel mirrors were designed specifically to sit above fireplace hearths to reflect light and enhance room proportions. Characterised by ornate gilded frames, floral mouldings, and architectural crestings, these pieces epitomise classical French interior design.

Traditional French gilt mirrors feature a pine or oak wooden core layered with gesso, a fine plaster mixture. Intricate decorative details were moulded from composition material, followed by the application of thin gold leaf through water gilding or oil gilding techniques over a bole clay base.

Authentic period examples display signs of hand-carving or early composition mould construction, natural ageing such as light foxing or desilverisation on the glass, and red or grey bole clay showing through worn gilding. Additionally, original backboards are typically constructed from hand-sawn wooden planks secured with antique nails.

Position the mirror above a fireplace mantel or modern console table to serve as a dramatic focal point. Pairing rich gilt ornamentation with minimalist contemporary furniture or neutral wall colour palettes creates an elegant contrast that bridges historical and modern aesthetics.

Dust the gilded frame gently using a soft, dry feather duster or camel hair brush without applying pressure. Avoid liquid cleaners, damp cloths, or commercial sprays on gold leaf, as moisture and chemicals can dissolve the gesso ground and permanently damage the delicate gilding.

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Large French Antique Gilt Overmantle Wall Mirror C 1870

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